asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that the cost of purifying the mussels at Cromane mussel plant is 2/6 per sack; and whether, in view of the fact that this additional cost is a hardship on the fishermen concerned, he will reduce the cost to 1/- per sack.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mussel Purification.
I am aware that the fee charged for treating mussels at the Purification Station at Cromane is as stated by the Deputy. The amount of the fee to be charged is entirely a matter for decision by the Directors of the Sea Fisheries Association. I understand that the fee of 2/6 per bag is the lowest which the directors consider would produce sufficient income to meet the expenses of operating the station during the current season having regard to the quantity of mussels likely to be delivered to the station during the season by the local gatherers of mussels.
Would the Minister endeavour to have the matter further examined with a view to seeing if some adjustment could be made in the costs so as to enable producers to benefit by the scheme?
It is intended to review the fee at the end of the season.